NASTURTIUM (Tropaeolum majus)

NASTURTIUM (Tropaeolum majus)

This entire plant has a spicy, peppery flavor. Leaves, flowers, and stems are commonly used fresh in salads, and the green pods can be pickled and used as a substitute for capers. Nasturtiums are also quite showy and are useful in a flower border or rock garden.

This is a tender annual with round, light green leaves and showy yellow, orange, or red blooms. The stems are elongated, giving the plant a spreading habit.

Because nasturtiums flower less and produce mostly leaves in a rich, moist soil; plant the seed in an unfertile location after frost danger is past. Although the plants will grow in full sun, it is better to choose a partially shaded spot. Soak the seeds overnight in water to aid germination. The fresh leaves and flowers can be harvested anytime during the growing season.

SOURCE: James C. Schmidt Department of Horticulture Michigan State University